Hi everyone! I’m still recuperating from the Romance Writers of America convention last week. I arrived in Orlando on Tuesday and it was a blur until I returned home on Sunday. I learned so much, though. Every year I come back feeling invigorated with my writing (and yes, equally exhausted too). It’s a wonderful experience for beginner and seasoned authors alike. There’s something there for everyone who enjoys romance (including bloggers, librarians, and readers).

Today, I wanted to share with you my top takeaways from the conference:​

We’re not alone in the struggle. The market right now is tough for everyone. Shelf space is dwindling and we’re all trying to figure out how to get our beloved books to the right readers.

There are a TON of marketing strategies out there. Find the one that works for you. (And I got to meet my favorite marketing guru Mark Dawson!)

Writing your best book is and always will be the first priority. I found a new favorite craft guru in Damon Suede at RWA.

More writers and readers are turning to light, fluffy, and funny to counteract what’s going on in the real world.

I didn’t necessarily learn this at this year’s conference, but I always come away from RWA with a new love for romance authors, bloggers, and readers. Love isn’t just what we read and write, it’s what we do as human beings. There are no strangers at RWA, only friends we haven’t had the pleasure to meet just yet.